Mar 17 โ€ข 20:16 UTC ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น Italy La Repubblica

Maps, walkie-talkies and pagers: Moscow returns to analog after two weeks without Internet

Moscow residents adapt to life without mobile internet by reverting to analog communication methods after a two-week blackout, affecting even popular messaging apps.

Moscow is experiencing a significant communication breakdown as the city has entered its second week without mobile internet, which has brought life in one of the world's most connected cities to a standstill. Initially expected to begin on April 1, this blackout has likely been accelerated, forcing the city's residents to adapt quickly. Telegram, a major instant messaging application widely used in the region, has also ceased to function, leaving individuals cut off from digital communication.

As a result of the lack of internet access, Muscovites are resorting to traditional forms of communication that were once common before the digital age took hold. Pagers, walkie-talkies, and landline phones are making a comeback as people seek ways to connect without the convenience of modern technology. This situation raises concerns about the implications of such a drastic loss of connectivity in a major urban center known for its high-tech infrastructure and dependence on online connectivity.

The implications of these developments extend beyond mere inconvenience, as the outage may impact local businesses, emergency services, and the ability to stay informed during critical periods. The city's ability to function effectively could be hindered without reliable communication methods, potentially leading to increased frustration among residents and delays in services that rely on internet connectivity. This unprecedented return to analog communication in a city like Moscow highlights the vulnerability of digital networks in the face of unforeseen disruptions.

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